Ministry of Transport backs Buy the Service scheme with 19 new buses for Trans Batam

Director General of Land Transportation Aan Suhanan stated that developing Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) through the Buy the Service (BTS) scheme, including Trans Batam services, is a strategic step towards orderly, productive, and sustainable urban mobility.

He praised Batam City Government’s commitment to optimising Trans Batam services by increasing the fleet in 2026, calling it a strategic move to provide modern and integrated public transport for community mobility.

“We observe consistent strengthening of Trans Batam with phased fleet increases from 2024 to 19 units added in 2026,” Aan said on Thursday, 28 May 2026.

Since 2024, Batam City Government has introduced 20 Trans Batam buses, followed by 13 in 2025, and now 19 more in 2026, bringing the total to 52 BTS vehicles. These will optimise services across five strategic corridors to Batam Centre: Sekupang, Tanjung Uncang, Jodoh, Tanjung Piayu, and Nongsa.

“We also commend the implementation of cashless payment systems and intermodal integration of Trans Batam, including connectivity to Hang Nadim Airport,” Aan added.

He noted that strengthening public transport via BRT development is vital for efficient mobility. Efficient services can reduce economic burdens from high transport costs and traffic congestion, and help prevent energy crises.

Currently, transport costs consume 30-40% of citizens’ income, and the sector accounts for 90% of the Rp300 trillion annual fuel subsidy.

“This imbalance causes problems, including longer travel times, congestion-related losses, air pollution, and difficulties accessing education and employment,” Aan said.

To address this, the government continues developing Urban Mass Public Transport (AUMP) in 20 major cities under the 2025-2029 National Medium-Term Development Plan (RPJMN). Aan stated the programme aims to reduce travel time, improve accessibility, and enhance urban areas as economic growth hubs.